5 Things About America That The UK Doesn't Understand

5. Patriotism

We here in the states take the American flag thing way too far. You’ll see them everywhere, from bumper stickers to napkins, hanging from every available surface, on t-shirts, belt buckles, lapel pins, fingernail art, to entire outfits. On top of that, there’s the mentality that comes with it. Anyone who complains about legitimate problems with this country is immediately labeled as liberal, and they clearly hate this nation.

The phrase “Greatest nation on Earth.” isn’t a brag, it’s a declaration that everything is perfect, and nothing needs to be changed.

So, where did this come from? Most likely the cold war. Post WWII propaganda and the 'Red Scare' forced this façade on people and made them ratchet the love of country up to the max. In a time when your neighbor could be the enemy, a communist, the only way to be sure no one thought you were a filthy red was to prove it with American flags, barbecues, and explosions in your back yard.

It’s come to a point where any critique of the nation at all is seen as a betrayal and treason, instead of what it really is: patriotism. If you truly love your country, why wouldn’t you want it to be the best it can be?